▲ A Ukrainian Antonov cargo plane at Germany's Leipzig/Halle Airport, where a drone equipped with explosives was found.
The German government has concluded that last month's explosive drone incident at Leipzig/Halle Airport was a Russian operation, taking retaliatory measures that include closing a Russian consulate.
During a press conference held on the 1st local time, German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt stated that Russian intelligence was involved in the incident, saying, "The means used in the crime—including drone parts, explosives, and detonators—are already known from Russia's other hybrid operations and the war in Ukraine."
"We are not in a state of war, but we are targeted by hybrid operations every day," he said, adding that the explosive drone incident is viewed not as an isolated event, but as an extension of Russian hybrid operations.
In response to the Russian operation, the German government decided to close the Russian Consulate General in Bonn starting on the 18th and terminate the contract for the Russian House of Science and Culture in Berlin, effectively shutting it down.
Additionally, Germany summoned the Russian ambassador to lodge a protest, announced tightened entry screenings for Russian nationals, and stated it would strengthen sanctions against the so-called shadow fleet that exports Russian oil while evading Western sanctions.
Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stated, "The Russian regime is blatantly showing hostility toward our country," adding, "The message to Russia is clear. We will not be divided or intimidated by Russian aggression."
On August 4 of last month, a drone carrying explosives was found near a cargo plane belonging to Ukraine's Antonov Airlines parked at Leipzig/Halle Airport in eastern Germany.
Airport security camera footage reportedly captured a drone striking the wing section of the cargo plane.
A DHL cargo plane attempting to land at the same airport also collided with another flying object, sustaining damage to its tail.
Drones, explosives, and antennas and electronic parts believed to have been used to pilot the drones were found near the airport.
Authorities believe that at least three drones and explosives were deployed in this operation.
Since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, Antonov Airlines has effectively used Leipzig Airport as a hub where support supplies gather.
German authorities also suspect Russian involvement in a package fire incident that occurred at a logistics company there in 2024.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte evaluated that Germany has presented clear evidence of Russian hybrid attacks.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated, "Hybrid attacks will not go without a clear response," adding that EU-level sanctions are being prepared.
European nations have suspected ongoing arson, explosions, and drone sightings following the outbreak of the war in Ukraine to be Russian hybrid operations.
The Russian Embassy in Germany criticized the measures, calling them a "hastily fabricated provocation" that "serves only the interests of Ukraine and the militaristic factions in European politics."
(Photo: AP, Yonhap News)
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